NFIB: Small business backs proposal to reform lawsuit process

CONTACT: Toni Angelini
toni.angelini@nfib.org
732-642-0815

MADISON (December 1, 2017): The National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) announced their support today of legislation introduced by Senators Tiffany and Craig, as well as Representatives Born and Nygren. The bill includes important reforms that address the high costs associated with the process of filing a civil lawsuit.

“The complexity and high transaction costs of civil lawsuits can be especially challenging expenses for small business owners. This legislation is a great step towards mitigating against future damages, increasing fairness and improving the predictability of Wisconsin’s civil justice system,” said Bill G. Smith, NFIB Wisconsin State Director. “Governor Walker has included lawsuit reform as a key policy initiative of his Small Business Agenda for Wisconsin because he is acutely aware that these costs can cripple a small business.”

According to a report by the Federal Tort Policy Working Group, “virtually two-thirds of every dollar paid out through the tort system is lost to attorneys’ fees and litigation expenses.” That’s why this proposal has the strong support of our state’s small business community.

“We are pleased to support legislation that will reduce litigation costs for small business, modernize civil court procedures, and help eliminate abusive discovery practices,” concluded Smith.